San Pedro Belize is a vibrant, colorful, and low-key island paradise. Located nearby to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Belize Barrier Reef, diving, snorkeling, and sailing are popular pastimes here. Golf carts, bicycles, and taxis serve as primary modes of transport here, while shops, bars, and restaurants line up colorful wooden buildings along the streets.
Cost of Living in San Pedro Belize
San Pedro Belize offers relatively affordable living costs when compared with Central America as a whole, yet that doesn’t mean your lifestyle won’t need some adjustments if you decide to make Belize your home. Belize housing costs can be steep. According to Numbeo, an average one-bedroom rental costs $300 monthly in Belize City; that’s 75% less than in the U.S. So, if moving abroad sounds appealing, make sure that it’s part of your plans before making your final decision. When looking to purchase a home in Belize, there is a wide range of options available to you. From stick-built houses for less than $100,000 to cement houses costing $155,000 or luxury waterfront properties costing over $300,000.
Houses in Belize tend to be built from concrete, making them extremely resilient against storms while saving on materials and labor costs associated with building your home here. This also saves you money. Electricity costs will also be considerably reduced as the government provides it at a fixed rate that is significantly cheaper than that available in the United States. An average home with a refrigerator, microwave, and Wi-Fi service typically has an electric bill between $18-25 monthly. Food prices in Belize are considerably less than in the United States, and local restaurants provide an array of fresh and cost-effective dishes such as the national dish of stewed chicken, rice, and beans which can be found for as little as $5 per meal.
Belize provides inexpensive transportation options, particularly if you opt to reside near an airport. Bicycles or golf carts are great ways to navigate around, while there are buses running all across the country that connect all regions. Expats often appreciate how low property taxes in Belize are; only 1.5 percent of your property value is assessed as taxes by the government compared with 2 percent in the U.S. If you are planning to purchase a house in Belize, make sure that you research the process prior to arriving. If any queries arise regarding it, consult an experienced real estate agent in Belize for further guidance.
Transportation in San Pedro Belize
San Pedro Belize is an idyllic Caribbean destination filled with beach bars, picturesque streets, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation – it was even the inspiration behind Madonna’s hit song, “La Isla Bonita.” San Pedro can be reached from Belize City or other locations via various transportation methods, with flights being the most common choice. They depart from either Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City or Ambergris Caye Municipal Airport, connecting directly with many destinations within Belize as well as Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. Take a water taxi ride directly from Corozal to San Pedro Island; Nautilus Express Water Taxi and Tropic Ferry offer daily trips between these destinations. Local tip: It is best to book your trip in advance to avoid delays or cancellations. Depending on which company you select, one-way airfare costs roughly $44-$53 US while round-trip costs range between $88-$106.
Taxis are an efficient and economical means of transportation between San Pedro and Belize City, as there are various companies operating within each city that will pick you up at your hotel or other location. Make sure you negotiate the cost before embarking on your ride with your driver. Renting a golf cart is another fantastic option that provides convenient transport across Secret Beach and other off-the-beaten-path attractions. Not only can it help visitors explore these faraway areas more thoroughly than driving alone could do so, but you also gain access to far-flung attractions that might otherwise remain out of reach. Shuttle buses offer another cost-cutting alternative between San Pedro and Belize City, helping travelers save money. While these shuttles may take slightly longer and be less comfortable than private cabs, they will still deliver you where you need to be and should reduce delays along your trip.
Schools in San Pedro Belize
Education in Belize is mandatory between the ages of five and fourteen; however, due to financial limitations, many children choose not to attend or drop out altogether. Most primary and secondary schools in Belize are run by either the government or private organizations, though some international schools can be costly and popular among both ex-pats and local Belizeans alike. St. Johns is one of Belize’s best-known and esteemed schools, providing high school and junior college for both boys and girls. A Jesuit institution, its reputation is for excellence. San Pedro Junior College also provides an undergraduate program, making it an attractive option for those wanting to continue their education after high school; however, its costs tend to be more costly compared with private schools mentioned previously.
Belize boasts several excellent private elementary schools, such as Saint Catherine Academy for girls in Belize City and St. John’s School for boys there. Both offer expensive tuition prices but are widely regarded as among the country’s finest schools. These schools cater mainly to families with an income exceeding US$3,000 a month, though there are also lower-cost private schools that charge around US$20 a month per student. Belize, unlike most Caribbean nations, lacks a national curriculum; thus most schools continue teaching to various standards from across the world: USA/UK/FRANCE/CANADA and AUS/NZ among them.
International schools in Belize may offer more specialized curriculums tailored specifically for children with special needs or those looking to learn multiple languages. As more expats settle down here, these international schools become increasingly popular because they provide an exceptional standard of education to their students. For those preferring more traditional education, San Pedro as well as Ambergris Caye, and other islands offer public schools which may not have as high of ratings but still provide adequate instruction to your children.
Shopping
San Pedro Belize, located on Ambergris Caye at its southern end, provides a tranquil tropical experience with white sand beaches and vibrant Caribbean water. A favorite tourist spot, it is an ideal destination for visitors seeking aquatic adventures like snorkeling and swimming. The town is an active and bustling community filled with vibrant vendors, gift shops, and art galleries offering unique souvenirs handmade in Belize along with clothing stores selling an extensive range of clothing brands. As you walk along the main streets, it becomes evident why this place has become such a favorite with tourists and locals alike. Narrow streets brim with golf carts, bicycles, and pedestrians – making for an enchanting atmosphere!
This area offers small local markets selling handmade soaps, fresh fruit, delectable treats, and tasty handmade snacks, as well as various shops offering all sorts of souvenirs such as hand-carved bowls, jewelry, or vintage finds. Marco Gonzalez Mayan Ruins are another must-see spot, featuring a recreated Mayan city and offering incredible views. You can learn about Belizean history while taking in beautiful vistas here! San Pedro offers some wonderful entertainment venues, and one must-see attraction is the Black & White Cultural Entertainment Center where live drumming performances and other cultural performances take place. These performances can give visitors insight into both island history and Garifuna culture.
Once your shopping trip is done, take some time to unwind at the beach or explore local bars and clubs. This island offers an exuberant nightlife scene; enjoy drinks while dancing until dawn breaks! If you want a break from San Pedro’s hustle and bustle, renting a golf cart and driving over to Secret Beach might just be what’s needed to find some peace and relaxation. Here, swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities await. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to see Belizean wildlife!
